We had the chance to ask Amare Stoudemire a few questions this week.  Amare is a power forward for the Phoenix Suns and plays on the USA national team.

Interview Dec 7th, 2007

Zimbio: As a young man you made a nearly seamless transition from high school student to professional athlete, averaging 20 points and 9 rebounds per game in only your second NBA season. How were you able to make the adjustment so quickly?

Amare Stoudemire: Being an NBA player was the first job I ever had.  I had a lot of great role models along the way, including childhood Coach Bernie Hays.  My family was a good support network for me.  I had a foundation behind me that helped me adjust to  the NBA that was so much more fast-paced.  But don't get me wrong, it was definitely a challenging process.  That's why I'm trying to give back to kids now...I had people supporting me along the way, and now I'm at a point where I can in turn support kids that need help.

Zimbio: After a lengthy rehabilitation, you’ve made an incredible recovery from microfracture knee surgery. Do you feel like your strength and explosiveness have returned to 100%?

Amare Stoudemire: I think I'm beyond 100% because I've been able to go through this hurdle, and make it out strong...playing with the FIBA this summer, in the All-Star Game, and making NBA First Team.  I'm continuing to work hard though, and one of my goals this season is definitely to keep healthy.

Zimbio: What kept you motivated through rehab? Was it tough watching from the bench for an entire season?

Amare Stoudemire: Most definitely.  It was tough to sit on the bench, but I was glad to be there for my team.  I love the game, and I was eager to get healthy and get back on the court, so it was not hard for me to keep motivated through rehab.
 
Zimbio: What parts of your game did you work on in the off-season? What would you like to improve upon in the future?

Amare Stoudemire: I worked on everything in the summer.  One of my main goals was to improve my defensive skills, and I feel pretty good about where I'm at with that. I worked on getting even more in shape in general..eating better, slimming down, so I could move quicker.

Zimbio: Many analysts believe that if it weren’t for the game 4 suspensions in last year's Western Conference Finals we would have seen a Suns vs. Cavs NBA Finals. Will "Black Jesus" lead Phoenix fans to salvation (an NBA Championship) this year? What’s your biggest hurdle to overcome?

Amare Stoudemire: Well, just to clarify, I don't consider myself Black Jesus, but I do have a Black Jesus tattoo.  Yes, we're aiming to win the NBA Championship this year, and I know we can do it.  That's all I can think about... winning the Championship.  I think to make it happen, it's all about our
team work..working hard together to play the best ball possible.

Zimbio: Thanks Amare, best of luck to you and the Suns in the 07-08 season.



Photo: Flickr